Exmouth B 5

THE first league game of the new year saw Minehead A's patchy away form continue as they were beaten 5-1 by Exmouth B.

Missing several key players, they struggled throughout against an Exmouth side which played hockey that belied their modest league position.

However, it was Minehead who started the stronger, Jon Ridge hitting the bar in the opening minutes.

Exmouth soaked up this early pressure and broke effectively, and their first real attack ended with a goal.

A second soon followed from a goalmouth scramble to give them a two goal cushion at half-time.

Minehead rallied after the break, but it was Exmouth who remained the stronger in attack, and a third goal was added midway through the half.

Minehead refused to give up, and led by midfielders Andrew Rees and Chris Hill and centre forward Ridge, they pushed hard to get back into the game. Their endeavours were rewarded when Ridge finished well in a one on one with the keeper.

Minehead continued to push forward, but the Exmouth defence held firm and scored twice before the end, sealing Minehead's heaviest defeat since October.

Britannia Inn Man of the match was Jon Ridge for his tireless work up front.

Minehead A: C Holman, M Rees, J Pennington, R Dibble, P Collins, A Bowden, C Hill, A Rees, D Brider, J Ridge, N Hill.